Highway Guide and Information Sign Manual · patterns with sizes of symbols, borders,...
Transcript of Highway Guide and Information Sign Manual · patterns with sizes of symbols, borders,...
Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation HIGHWAY GUIDE AND INFORMATION SIGN MANUAL OCTOBER 2006
GUIDE SIGN DESIGN AND GENERAL PLACEMENT A4-11
A4.3 GUIDE SIGN DESIGN
AND GENERAL
PLACEMENT
A4.3.1 Importance of Common
Standards
The� application� of� technical� standards� for�design,� manufacture� and� installation� of�signing�is�necessary�to�ensure�that:��
� Signs� are� of� a� consistent� colour� and�shape�for�ease�of�recognition.�
� Legend� size� is� the� optimum� for�motorist�comprehension�at�the�posted�traffic�speed.�
� The� use� and� number� of� words� and�symbols� is� optimized� for� maximum�information�and�comprehension.�
� Signs�do�not�present�a�safety�hazard.��Alberta�Infrastructure�and�Transportation�has�patterns� with� sizes� of� symbols,� borders,�colours,�layouts,�arrows,�font�sizes�and�types�preset�for�many�common�signs.��These�should�be� used� without� exception.� � The� following�section� is� provided� for� signs� where� the�patterns�cannot�be�used.�
The�design�of�guide�and�information�signs�has�several�components:�
� Shape�and�Colour�� Font�Type�� Font�Size�� Borders�� Abbreviations�� Symbols�� Arrows�� Sign�Layout�� Sign�Size�� Placement�Considerations�� Sign�Materials.�
�
A4.3.2 Shape and Colour
The� shape� and� colour� of� a� sign� advises� the�road�user�of�the�class�of�message�before�they�get� close� enough� to� the� sign� to� read� the�message.� � The� recognition� of� signs� can� be�simplified�by�enabling�the�driver�to�judge�in�advance�the�type�of�message�expected,�and�to�help� in� this� regard� a� code� of� shapes� and�colours� is� adopted.� Table� 3.1� illustrates� the�shapes�and�colours�for�each�sub�class�of�guide�and�information�sign.������������������
Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation OCTOBER 2006 HIGHWAY GUIDE AND INFORMATION SIGN MANUAL
A4-12 GUIDE SIGN DESIGN AND GENERAL PLACEMENT
Table 3.1 – Guide and Information Sign Shapes and Colours
Colour Code Class Sub-Class Shape Back-
Ground Message Border Comments
IA Destination Guide Signs
Green
White
White
Used for providing direction and distance to communities and large trip generators.
IB Route Markers &
Trail Blazers
White
Variable
Black
Variable
Black
Variable
Used primarily for route identification.
Trail Blazers may contain other custom colours.
IC Off Road
Facility Signs
Blue
White
White
Some municipalities may choose to use a brown background for roadside facilities. Some messages may also contain minor elements in other colors.
ID Miscellaneous
Information Signs
Green
White
White
Some miscellaneous signs also have elements in other colours.
Guide and
Information
IF Freeway Guide
Signs
Green
White
White
Used for providing direction and distance to exit ramps along freeways
Tabs Supplementary Information Panels
Colours should match the primary sign onto which the tab is attached.
Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation HIGHWAY GUIDE AND INFORMATION SIGN MANUAL OCTOBER 2006
GUIDE SIGN DESIGN AND GENERAL PLACEMENT A4-13
A4.3.3 Font Type
It�is�important�that�clear�and�consistent�font�types�be�used�on�all�guide�signs.��The�Clearview�font�style,�which�includes�the�ClearviewHwy�font,�was�developed�through�a�decade�of�research�starting�in�the�early�1990s.��The�goal�of�the�Clearview�font�was�to�increase�legibility�and�reduce�halation�of�highway�sign�legends� in� comparison� to� that� of� Standard�Highway� Signs� (SHS)� Alphabets� (Highway�Gothic�font).��Clearview� font� letters� were� developed�specifically� to� address� four� issues� with� the�legibility�of�SHS�alphabets.��They�are:��
� Upgrade� highway� signing� word�messages�to�accommodate�the�needs�of�older�drivers�without�increasing�the�capital� letter� height� and� the� overall�length�and�height�of�word�messages�and�the�signs�themselves.�
� Improve�word�pattern�recognition�by�using�mixed�case�words�of� the�same�size� composed� of� lower� case� letters�designed� for� highway� sign�applications.�
� Improve� the� speed� and� accuracy� of�destination� recognition� and� the�legibility�distance�of�word�messages.�
� Control� or�minimize� the� halation� of�words� displayed� on� high� brightness�retroreflective� materials� for� drivers�with�reduced�contrast�sensitivity.�
�The�term�ClearviewHwy�font�will�be�used�to�reference�the�Clearview�type�system�that�has�the�six�distinct�weights,�with�each�having�a�version� for� positive� contrast� applications.��ClearviewHwy�font�software�is�available�from�the� developer� of� the� Clearview� font� type�system.� For� further� information� on� the�
ClearviewHwy� font,� please� refer� to� the�website:�clearviewhwy.com��A�general�comparison�guide�for�application�to�the�SHS�Standard�Alphabet�is�summarized�in�the�following�table:��Table 3.2 – Comparison of ClearviewHwy
Font to Highway Gothic Font
ClearviewHwy�Font� Highway�Gothic�Font�1�W� Series�B�2�W� Series�C�3�W� Series�D�4�W� Series�E�
5�W�and�5�W�R*� Series�E�Modified�6�W� Series�F�
*� ClearviewHwy� 5�W�R� has� tighter� letter� spacing�than�5�W�and� is�designed� for� the� replacement�of�overhead�guide�signs�in�which�the�5�W�is�too�wide�for�the�specific�application.�
�Key� changes� to� the�department�practice� for�Standard�Highway�Signs�Alphabets�(Highway�Gothic� font)� for� guide� signs� shall� be� as�follows:��
� All� new� overhead� and� shoulder�mounted�guide�signs�shall�adopt�the�ClearviewHwy� font� type� system.��Guide� signs� that� previously� applied�the� SHS� Series� E� shall� utilize�ClearviewHwy�4�W.��Guide�signs�that�previously�applied�the�SHS�Series�E�Modified� shall� utilize� the�ClearviewHwy�5�W.�
� The� character� spacing� of� Clearview�font�shall�follow�the�spacing�tables�for�ClearviewHwy,� and� not� SHS� E�modified.� However,� for� overhead�guide�signs�and�for�the�replacement�of�existing�guide�signs�where�the�5�W�is�too�wide�for� the�specific�application,�the�5�W�R�font�may�be�used.�
� All�guide�signs�shall�be�designed�with�the�ClearviewHwy� font� type� system�software.�
Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation OCTOBER 2006 HIGHWAY GUIDE AND INFORMATION SIGN MANUAL
A4-14 GUIDE SIGN DESIGN AND GENERAL PLACEMENT
If�the�message�on�the�guide�sign�does�not�fit�on�the�sign�due�to�restricted�sign�space�then�a�narrower�series�font�may�be�used�to�condense�the�message.��One�line�of�text,�within�a�two�or�three�line�text�message,�may�be�reduced,�but�not�by�more�than�one�font�series.��Reducing�the�font�by�more�than�one�font�series�would�cause�the�smaller�text�to�look�out�of�place.��Facility� and� attraction� signs� belonging� to�Class� IC� typically� use� 3�W� font,� unless� its�placed� on� a�multilane� highway�where� 5�W�font� is� used.� � Motorists� can� more� easily�distinguish� between� primary� destinations�such� as� communities� and� secondary�destinations� belonging� to� individual�attractions� and� facilities.� � 2�W� font�may� be�used�to�condense�long�messages�or�on�smaller�tab�sized�signs.��Destination�names�placed�on�guide�signs�shall�use�lower�case�letters�with�uppercase�as�the�initial�letter�(Initcap).��All�other�text�(NORTH�cardinal�direction,�NEXT�EXIT,�EXIT�ONLY,�etc.)�is�given�in�uppercase�letters�only.������
A4.3.4 Font Size
In�order�for�a�sign�to�be�effective,�it�must�be�legible�from�a�distance�which�allows�a�driver�to� read� it,� react� to� it� and� carry� out� any�required�maneuvers�before�reaching�the�sign.���TAC’s� “Supplemental� Guide� for� Guide� and�Information�Signage�in�Canada”�and�AASHTO’s�“Manual� of� Uniform� traffic� Control� Devices”�states�that�for�every�12�m�of�desired�legibility,�25� mm� of� text� is� needed.� An� example� is�provided� in� Section� A4.2.3.3� showing� how�letter� height� is� derived� based� on� desired�legibility.���For� guide� and� information� signs,� Table� 3.3�should�be�used�to�determine�the�letter�heights�on� signs� on� urban� roadways� and� Table� 3.4�should�be�used�on�rural�roadways.��Font�sizes�are� given� for� several� different� types� of�messages.��In�fringe�areas�of�cities�the�urban�standard�is�typically�used,�because�of�higher�volume� and� the� expectancy� that� these�highways�will�become�urbanized.�����
Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation HIGHWAY GUIDE AND INFORMATION SIGN MANUAL OCTOBER 2006
GUIDE SIGN DESIGN AND GENERAL PLACEMENT A4-15
Table 3.3 – Letter Sizes for Overhead and Ground Mounted Urban Freeway Guide Signs Urban�Freeway�&�
Expressway�mm�(inches)�
Arterial�mm�(inches)�
Collector�Road�&�Service�Road��mm�(inches)�
Interchange�Ramp�&�Access�Road�mm�(inches)�Message�Detail�
Overhead�Ground�Mount�� Overhead�
Ground�Mount�
Ground�Mount�
Ground�Mount�
Main�Destination�/�Name�(i.e.�Community�Name,�Route�Name,�Cross�Street,�Major�Airport)�
406�(16”)� 330�(13”)� 330�(13”)� 254�(10”)� 254�(10”)� 254�(10”)�
Secondary�Information�(i.e.�Shopping�Centre,�Zoo,�Stadium,�Other�Major�Trip�Generator)�
330�(13”)� �� 254�(10”)� �� �� ��
Cardinal�direction� 330�(13”)� 254�(10”)� 254�(10”)� 203�(8”)� 203�(8”)� 203�(8”)�
Distance�units�(i.e.�“km”,�“m”)� 330�(13”)� 254�(10”)� 254�(10”)� 203�(8”)� 203�(8”)� 203�(8”)�
Exit�number� 330�(13”)� 254�(10”)� �� �� �� ��
Route�number�in�shield� 330�(13”)� 254�(10”)� 254�(10”)� 203�(8”)� 203�(8”)� 203�(8”)�
Notes:�1.� For�complex�situations�where�there�are�non�standard�offset�distances,�clearance�heights�or�large�messages,�refer�to�
the�TAC�Supplemental�Guide�for�Guide�and�Information�Signage�in�Canada.��
��
Table 3.4 – Letter Sizes for Overhead and Ground Mounted Rural Freeway/Highway Guide Signs
Message Detail Overhead
Major Corridor* mm (inches)
Overhead mm (inches)
Ground Mount Multi-Lane mm (inches)
Ground Mount 2-Lane
mm (inches)
Main Destination / Name (i.e. Community Name, Route Name, Cross Street, Major Airport)
406 (16”) 330 (13”) 254 (10”) 203 (8”)
Secondary Information (i.e. Shopping Centre, Zoo, Stadium, Other Major Trip Generator)
330 (13”) 254 (10”) 203 (8”) 152 (6”)
Cardinal direction 330 (13”) 254 (10”) 203 (8”) 152 (6”)
Distance units (i.e. “km”, “m”) 330 (13”) 254 (10”) 203 (8”) 152 (6”)
Exit number 330 (13”) 254 (10”) 203 (8”) 152 (6”)
Route number in shield 330 (13”) 254 (10”) 203 (8”) 152 (6”)
Notes: 1. For complex situations where there are non-standard offset distances, clearance heights or large messages, refer to
the Supplemental Guide for Guide and Information Signage in Canada. *� Major corridors include rural highways on the National Highway System within Alberta. Examples include
North/South Trade Corridor, Trans Canada Highways, and route from Edmonton to Fort McMurray.������
������
Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation OCTOBER 2006 HIGHWAY GUIDE AND INFORMATION SIGN MANUAL
A4-16 GUIDE SIGN DESIGN AND GENERAL PLACEMENT
A4.3.5 Borders
A�border�having�the�same�colour�as�the�text�message�shall�be�placed�at�the�perimeter�of�all�guide�and�information�sign�panels�to�increase�the�sign’s�conspicuity�and�provide�an�overall�finished� appearance.� � The� border� shall� be�extended�to�the�edge�of�the�sign�panel�with�no�background�colour�shown�between�the�border�and�the�edge.�The�border�thickness�and�radius�of�curvature�for�the�corners�is�shown�in�Table�3.5.��
Table 3.5 – Border Sizes
Maximum�Letter�Height�mm�(inches)�
Border�Thickness�mm�(inches)�
Outside�Corner�Radii�
mm�(inches)�150�(6�)� 19�(0.75”)� 100�(4”)�203�(8”)� 19�(0.75”)� 100�(4”)�254�(10”)� 19�(0.75”)� 100�(4”)�305�–�330�(12”�–�13”)� 38�(1.5”)� 150�(6”)�
406�(16”)� 50�(2”)� 200�(8”)�Notes:�(1)� Borders�shall�extend�to�the�perimeter�edge�of�the�
sign�panel.�(2� Border� thickness� shall� not� exceed� the� stroke�
width�of�the�major�lettering�on�the�sign.�(3)� The�border�corner�radii�should�be�measured�to�
the�outside�edge�of�the�border.�(4)� The�corner�radius�should�not�exceed�1/8�of�the�
width�or�height,�whichever�is�less.�(5)� Trimming�the�sign�area�outside�the�corner�
radius�is�not�required.�
�
A4.3.6 Abbreviations
Abbreviations�may�be�used�to�reduce�message�length� if� needed� or� to� balance� the�message�over�the�face�of�the�sign.��The�unabbreviated�version� shall� be� used� if� there� is� sufficient�space.� Abbreviations� should� be� used� with�care,�ensuring�that�only�commonly�used�and�understood� abbreviations� are� utilized� for�signs.��Periods�are�used�after�abbreviations�for�any� type� of� roadway� (i.e.� Freeway,� Road,�
Highway,�Boulevard�and� Junction).�Periods�are� not� used� when� abbreviating� lengths� or�directions� and� after� the� abbreviations� for�Range�and�Township�Roads.��In�Alberta,�the�following� abbreviations� (with� and� without�periods)�are�recognized.��
Table 3.6 – Standard Abbreviations
Word�Message� Standard�Abbreviation�Avenue� Ave.�Drive� Dr.�
Freeway� Fwy.�Highway� Hwy.�Trail� Tr.�
Boulevard� Blvd.�Road� Rd.�Street� St.�
Junction� Jct.�kilometre(s)� km��metre(s)� m��
Township�Road� TWP�RD�Range�Road� RGE�RD�Southwest� SW�Southeast� SE�Northwest� NW�Northeast� NE�
�
A4.3.7 Symbols
Symbols� have� an� advantage� over� word�messages� in� that� they� can� be� seen� and�recognized� from� greater� distances.� � If� the�symbols� are� easily� recognizable,� either�because�of� their�standard�application�across�the� country� or� because� they� are� self�explanatory,� they� can� be� understood� more�quickly� than� a� word�message� and� even� by�people�who� do� not� understand� the� English�language.��In�order�to�be�effective,�therefore,�symbols� must� be� understood� by� a� large�percentage�of�the�population.�Consequently,�when� designing� new� symbols,� the� design�
Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation HIGHWAY GUIDE AND INFORMATION SIGN MANUAL OCTOBER 2006
GUIDE SIGN DESIGN AND GENERAL PLACEMENT A4-17
should�be�thoroughly�tested�by�a�sample�of�representative�drivers,�rather�than�just�other�designers� and� traffic� practitioners.� � Symbol�designs� should� be� kept� simple� and� the�elements�of�a�symbol�kept�as�large�as�possible,�as� small� elements� on� a� symbol� cannot� be�distinguished�at�large�distances.��A�number�of�recognized�Alberta� symbols,�which�may� be�recognized� by� national� and� international�travelers,� are� provided� on� the� Alberta�Infrastructure� and� Transportation� website,�and�the�designer�should�check�the�Sign�Panel�Catalogue�for�newly�developed�symbols.�Any�symbol� used� on� signs� must� be� identical� in�design� to� those� shown� in� the� Sign� Panel�Catalogue.����
A4.3.8 Arrows
There� are� several� types� of� arrows� used� in�guide�signs�to�provide�directions�of�travel.���These�include:�
� Tapered�Shafted�Arrows�–�these�are�up,�left,�right�or��angled�on�directional�signs.�
� Straight�Shafted�Arrows�–� these�are�up,� left� or� right� on� community�direction�signs.�
� Down�Arrows�–�these�are��only�used�on� overhead� signs� in� a� downward�direction�to�show�lane�designation.�
� Tab�Arrows�–� these�are�used�on� tab�signs.�
�4.3.8.1 Tapered Arrows
Tapered�arrows�should�be�used�in�an�up�or�angled� direction� to� provide� a� direction� of�travel�for�the�driver�on�both�ground�mounted�directional�exit�and�overhead�guide�signs.�The�actual� size� of� this� arrow�depends� upon� the�height�of� the� letters,� as� shown� in�Table� 3.7.�The� shaft� length� should� be� within� the�dimensions� provided,� dependent� upon� the�amount� and� number� of� rows� of� text.� � The�
taper�rate�on�the�shaft�of�the�arrow�should�be�kept�constant.�The�tapered�arrow�is�illustrated�in�Figure�3.1.���
Figure 3.1 – Tapered Arrow Dimensions
���
Table 3.7 – Tapered Arrow Dimensions
Letter�Height�(Upper�Case)�
Arrow�Dimensions�in�mm�
� �a�� b� c� d� e*� r�205� 385� 300� 95� 35� 430�–�635� 20�
255�–�340� 465� 330� 115� 40� 510�–�760� 20�405� 565� 430� 135� 45� 635���890� 25�
Notes:�1.� Taper�of�13�mm�per�300�mm�should�be�held�
constant�for�all�shaft�lengths�*� Dependent�on�letter�size.��Slanted�arrows�are�typically�inclined�at�45°�or�60°�from�horizontal.��The�60°�slanted�arrow�is�used�when�the�tapered�arrow�is�placed�on�the�left�or� right� side�of� the�sign�panel.� �The�45°�arrow�is�used�when�the�arrow�is�placed�on�a�row�in�the�center�of�the�sign�panel.��4.3.8.2 Straight Shafted Arrows
The�dimensions�of�the�straight�shafted�arrow�are�shown�in�Figure�3.2�and�Table�3.8.���
Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation OCTOBER 2006 HIGHWAY GUIDE AND INFORMATION SIGN MANUAL
A4-18 GUIDE SIGN DESIGN AND GENERAL PLACEMENT
Figure 3.2 – Straight Shafted Arrow
Dimensions
�
��
Table 3.8 – Straight Shafted Arrow
Dimensions
Arrow�Dimensions�in�mm�Letter�Height�(Upper�Case)� a� b� c� d� e*� r�
203� 203� 170� 64� 17� 250� 14�254� 254� 213� 80� 21� 300� 17�
*� Increase�stem�length�by�50�mm�for� left�and�right�arrow�placed�in�the�horizontal�position�
�These�arrows�are�used�horizontally�pointing�in�either�direction,�or�vertically�to�indicate�the�road� ahead� on� community� direction� signs.��See�Section�A4.5� for�examples�of�how�these�arrows�are�used�in�signs.��4.3.8.3 Down Arrows
Down�arrows�are�used�to�show�specific�traffic�lanes�on�overhead�signs�(often�referred�to�as�“Pull� Thru”� signs).� Figure� 3.3� indicates� a�standard� size� for� the� down� arrow� used� on�overhead�signs.���������
Figure 3.3 – Down Arrow Dimensions
��
Down� arrows� located� on� overhead� signs�should�be�placed�in�the�middle�of�the�lane�but�may�be�aligned�between�the�¼�point�and�the�¾� point� in� the� lane� if� necessary.� � Multiple�down�arrows�should�be�placed�at�a�consistent�spacing.���In�locations�where�four�or�more�down�arrows�are�required,�and�there�are�no�exit�only�lanes�approaching�the�ramp,�wording�may�be�used�in� lieu� of� the� down� arrows� (i.e.“4� Lanes”�instead�of�four�down�arrows).�This�will�reduce�the�number�of�sign�panels�placed�over�each�lane.� Examples� of� these� applications� are�provided�in�Figures�3.4�to�3.6.��Figure 3.4 – Down Arrow Placement on Sign
for Two Lanes �
��Figure 3.5 – Down Arrow Placement on Sign
for Three Lanes �
��
Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation HIGHWAY GUIDE AND INFORMATION SIGN MANUAL OCTOBER 2006
GUIDE SIGN DESIGN AND GENERAL PLACEMENT A4-19
Figure 3.6 – Specific Traffic Lane (more than
three lanes) �
��4.3.8.4 Tab Arrows
Tab�arrows�are�used�on�tab�signs�below�route�markers.��These�types�of�arrows�are�illustrated�in�Section�A4.4.��
A4.3.9 Sign Layout
Many�signs�have�standard�patterns�with�pre�defined�parameters�such�as�size,�dimensions,�letter� sizes,� etc.� � Others� (and� in� particular�guide� signs),� require� a� custom� design�dependent�upon�the�individual�message�being�displayed.� �The�following�are�guidelines�for�the�layout�of�those�signs:�
� Text� and/or� symbols� should� be�ordered� logically� and� balanced� over�the�face�of�the�sign.�
� The� spacing� between� lines� and� text�should�be�such�that�the�sign�is�legible�from�a�distance.�
� The�spacing�between�lines�for�mixed�case�text�should�be�increased,�so�that�the� vertical� strokes� down� below� the�line�do�not�interfere�with�the�upward�strokes�of�the�text�below.�
� A�border�should�always�be�used.�� Lots�of�background�should�always�be�
used�to�make�the�sign�message�clearly�distinguishable.�
�It� is� important� to� note� that� extruded�aluminum�(which�is�used�for�the�guide�sign�backing�material)�is�manufactured�in�305�mm�(12”)�strips.��The�size�of�the�sign�and�the�size�of�the�spaces�between�the�rows�of�a�message�should� be� designed� so� that� the� total� sign�depth� is� an� equal� increment� of� 305� mm�wherever�possible.�Full�panel�widths�should�be�used�as�cutting�the�aluminum�strips�into�narrower�pieces�is�not�desirable.��In� general,� guide� and� information� signs�should� be� laid� out� according� to� Figures� 3.7�and� 3.8,�with� spacing� above� and� below� the�message.��
Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation OCTOBER 2006 HIGHWAY GUIDE AND INFORMATION SIGN MANUAL
A4-20 GUIDE SIGN DESIGN AND GENERAL PLACEMENT
Figure 3.7 – Typical Layout of an Exit Guide Directional Sign
�
���
Figure 3.8 – Destination Direction Sign Layout
����
�����
����
Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation HIGHWAY GUIDE AND INFORMATION SIGN MANUAL OCTOBER 2006
GUIDE SIGN DESIGN AND GENERAL PLACEMENT A4-21
A4.3.10 Sign Size
The� size� and� amount� of� lettering� is� very�important�in�sign�design.��The�size�of�the�sign�shall�be�dependent�upon�the�size�of�lettering�required�and�the�length�of�the�message.�The�length�of�the�message�should�be�kept�as�short�as� possible.� Signs� should� be� sized� to�adequately�fit�the�message�in�accordance�with�the� sign� layout� guidelines� provided� above.�Signs�and�Messages�should�be�larger�if:�
� There� are� factors� that� impact� the�driver,� such� as� a� complex� driving�environment�in�an�urban�situation.�
� In� areas� with� a� high� collision� rate,�where�the�collisions�can�be�attributed�to�drivers�missing�the�sign.�
� If�there�is�a�known�challenged�driver�population�in�the�area.�
�Under� certain� circumstances,� in� city� centres�for�example,�the�locations�for�installing�signs�of�a�certain�size�may�be�limited�by�boulevard�space� and� structural� limitations� of� the� sign�support�structure.� � In�these�cases,� it�may�be�necessary�to�either�redesign�the�sign�or�divide�sign� information� over� two� or� more� signs.�Other�locations�on�highways�may�also�have�sign� size� restrictions� such� as� overhead�structures� over� travel� lanes,� and� on� exit�ramps.��In�areas�with�restricted�clearances�the�height�of�sign�may�also�be�restricted.���
A4.3.11 Placement Considerations
Proper� positioning� of� signs� is� an� important�element�in�the�overall�control�of�traffic�within�a�roadway�network.��When�carefully�planned�and� applied,� it� significantly� improves� the�driver’s� ability� to� navigate� through� the�network.��Conversely,�when�neglected�it�may�contribute�to�operational�and�safety�problems.���Consequently,�it�is�important�to�standardize�the�position�of�signs�so�the�drivers�can�quickly�
locate�them�and�spend�more�time�reading�the�signs�rather�than�looking�for�them.���Due�to�the�changing�roadway�environment,�the� standardization� of� sign� position� is� not�always� attainable.� � As� a� general� rule,� signs�should�be�placed� in� the�most�advantageous�position�and�adapted�to�the�road�design�and�alignment.����The� following� guidelines� should� be� used�when�locating�traffic�signs�and�devices�along�a�roadway.��A4.3.11.1 Ground Mounted versus
Overhead Sign Structures
Ground�Mounted�Signs���Ground�mounts�are�used�for�the�majority�of�signs�in�Alberta.�They�are� reasonably� economic� and� consistent� in�appearance�and�placement.��Guide� signs� are� normally� installed� on� the�right� side� of� the� road,� as� this� is� where� the�driver�expects�to�see�them.��However,�under�certain�circumstances,�signs�can�be�mounted�at�other�locations�when�it�is�beneficial�to�do�so.�These�locations�can�include:�
� In�the�median�to�increase�conspicuity.�� On� the� left� hand� side� of� the� road� if�
there�is�a�sharp�right�turn.��Overhead�Signs���Overhead�signs�are�used�on�freeways,� expressways� and� major� arterials�where�there�are�many�lanes�of�traffic,�sightline�issues,� or� where� the� sign� needs� to� be� seen�from� a� far� distance.� They� are� not� normally�installed� on� two�lane� highways.� Overhead�signs� may� be� installed� on� a� bridge� type�structure�or�cantilever.�
�There� are�many� situations� where� overhead�sign�structures�may�be�beneficial:���
� Traffic�volumes�at�or�near�capacity.�� Complex�interchange�design.�
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� Collision�experience�indicates�drivers�having�difficulty� seeing� the�primary�sign.�
� Three�or�more�lanes�in�each�direction.�� Restricted�sight�distance.�� Closely�spaced�interchanges.�� Multi�lane�exits.�� Left�hand�exit.�� High�percentage�of�trucks.�� Background�street�lighting.�� High�speed�of�traffic.�� Consistency�of�sign�message�location�
through�a�series�of�interchanges.��� Insufficient�space�for�ground�mounted�
signs.�� Junction�of�a�major�route�with�another�
freeway.��The� existence� of� one� or� more� of� these�conditions�does�not�automatically�justify�the�use� of� overhead� signs.� � Some� of� the� noted�elements�may�be�made� less�critical�by�close�coordination�between�design�and�operation.��Overhead� sign� supports,� should� not� be�installed� in� gore� areas� or� other� exposed�locations.��A4.3.11.2 Longitudinal Placement
The� distance� of� a� guide� sign� from� an�intersection� is� dependent� upon� the� reading�reaction�and�maneuver�time�and�the�resultant�decision� sight� distance.� � Details� of� the�distances� of� signs� at� intersections� and�interchanges� are� provided� in� the� TCS�Drawings�in�Sections�A4.4�and�A4.5.��When�all�the�information�required�by�the�driver�cannot�be�placed�on�a�single�sign�or�on�a�number�of�signs� at� one� location,� a� longitudinal�separation� of� 100� to� 150�m� between� sets� of�basic�signs�is�required�for�all�rural�areas�and�50�to�100�m�for�urban�arterials�and�freeways.��If� the� guide� signs� contain� more� than� basic�information�then�the�distance�between�them�
becomes� a� function� of� the� amount� of�information� that� the� driver� must� read� and�absorb,�and�must�be�increased.��A4.3.11.3 Horizontal Placement
The�horizontal�distance�of�the�sign�from�the�edge�of� the�traveled�way�must�trade�off�the�safe�clearance�distances�(and�whether�the�sign�is� mounted� on� breakaway� posts),� with�providing� optimal� sign� legibility.� For� rural�roadways� the� horizontal� distance� from� the�white� shoulder� line� to� the� sign� shall� be� six�metres.�Horizontal� placement� of� signs� on� a�rural�roadway�is�illustrated�in�Drawing�TCS�A4�300.� In� urban� situations� the� horizontal�offset�must� not� be� less� than� 0.3�m� and� not�more�than�two�metres�from�the�edge�of�curb.��Refer�to�Drawing�TCS�A4�305�(for�placement�on�an�urban�roadway).��Ground�mounted�sign�structures�should�be�placed�outside�the�clear�zone� whenever� possible.� Sign� structures�within�the�clear�zone�must�be�designed�with�crashworthy� materials� or� breakaway� if�impacted�by�an�errant�vehicle�or�alternatively�protected� with� an� appropriate� barrier.� For�more�details�regarding�the�clear�zone�concept�reference�is�made�to�the�Alberta�Infrastructure�and� Transportation� publications� “Highway�Geometric� Design� Guide”� and� the� “Highway�Lighting�Guide”.�
A4.3.11.4 Vertical Placement
The� general� guidelines� for� the� vertical�placement�of�signs�are�also�provided�in�typical�signage�Drawings�TCS�A4�300�and�TCS�A4�305,� with� additional� information� shown� in�Table�3.9.��A4.3.11.5 Guidelines for Sign Installation
Normally,� signs� should� be� installed� on�separate�posts�except�where�a�second�sign�is�needed� to� supplement� the� primary� sign� or�where� route� or� directional� signs� must� be�
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grouped.� � Sign� posts� and� their� foundations�should�be�able�to�hold�signs�rigidly� in�their�proper�and�permanent�position.��Rural�Areas�In�rural�areas,�signs�are�normally�installed�on�a� single� 100� x� 100� mm� wooden� post.� � In�regions� were� strong� winds� are� a� problem,�signs�may�be�installed�on�a�single�100�x�150�mm� wooden� post.� For� larger� installations,�post�requirements�must�be�determined�based�on�the�following�criteria:�
� Two� posts� are� needed� if� the� sign�width�exceeds�150�cm.�
� Breakaway� ground� mounts� are�needed�if�the�sign�area�exceeds�three�square�metres� (signs� located�outside�the� clear� zone� or� protected� by� a�guardrail� do� not� need� breakaway�supporting�structures).�
� Signs� greater� than� 5.5� m� in� width�requires�a�three�post�mounting.�
Urban�Areas�In� urban� areas,� signs� should� preferably� be�installed�on�existing�roadway�appurtenances�(such� as� street� light� and� power� poles)� to�minimize�the�number�of�poles�along�the�road.���Separate�sign�supports,�if�needed,�should�be�installed�as�not�to�create�a�hazard�to�cyclists,�motorcyclists,� pedestrians� and� drivers.� � If�used,�rigid�metal�posts�are�more�appropriate�than� wood� posts� because� they� can� better�withstand� the� impact� when� struck� by� an�errant�vehicle.��They�are�also�easier�to�replace,�if�needed.���In� urban� areas� the� use� of� posts� may� be�minimized�by�co�mounting�two�or�more�signs�on�one�post�(where�logical�and�practical).�The�criteria�for�mounting�large�ground�mounted�and� overhead� signs� are� the� same� as� the�criteria� for� mounting� signs� along� rural�highways.��
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Table 3.9 – Vertical Placement of Signs �
Type� Local�Characteristics� Recommended�Vertical�Mounting��Ground�Mounted� Areas�with�pedestrians.� Two�metres�measured�from�ground�elevation�at�the�
base� of� the� signpost� to� the� bottom� of� the� sign,�including� supplemental� tabs� (if� present).� � If� two�metres�mounting�height�is�not�possible,�sign�should�not� be�mounted�more� than� three�metres� from� the�ground.�
� Areas�with�no�pedestrians�with�raised�curbs.�
Two�metres�measured�from�the�road�surface�to�the�bottom� of� the� principal� sign,� regardless� of� the�presence�of�a�tab,�to�the�top�of�curb.�If�two�metres�mounted�height�is�not�possible,�range�of�permissible�mounting�heights�is�1.5�to�2.5�m.�
� Single�guide�sign�on�high�speed�road.�
2.1�m�measured�from�the�road�surface�to�the�bottom�of�the�sign.�
� Guide�sign�with�secondary�guide�sign�mounted�below,�on�high�speed�road.��
2.4�m�measured�from�the�road�surface�to�the�bottom�of�the�primary�sign.��1.5�m�from�the�near�edge�of�the�nearest� traffic� lane�to�the�bottom�of� the�secondary�sign.�
Overhead� On�structures�such�as�traffic�signal�mast�arms,�bridge�supports,�etc.�
Clearance�requirements�are�5.8�m�but�may�need�to�be�increased�in�areas�having�over�height�loads.�
� On�dedicated�overhead�support�such�as�a�sign�gantry.�
Clearance� requirements� are� six� metres� from� the�roadway�surface�to�the�bottom�of�the�sign�assembly,�including� tabs.� This� separation� distance� is�recommended�to�reduce�the�probability�of�the�sign�being�struck,�recognizing�the�safety�implications�if�the�gantry�were�to�collapse�on�the�roadway,�as�per�the�Alberta�Infrastructure�and�Transportation�bridge�clearance�requirements.��In�high�load�corridors�(for�loads�up�to�nine�metres�high)� a� side�mounted� or� cantilever� swivel� base� is�used� as� a� sign� structure� having� a� nine� metres�clearance�is�impractical.��For� overhead� sign� bridges� (defined� as� a� structure�containing� a� sign� area� greater� than� four� square�metres),�tubular�pole�structures�and�cantilever�sign�structures,�the�require�clearance�is�six�metres.���
Notes:�1.�� Site�specific�conditions�may�warrant�greater�separation�distances.�� All�signs�should�be�placed�to�allow�for�a�clear�sight�line�over�parked�vehicles,�or�alternatively,�parking�
should�be�banned.�
��
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A4.3.11.4 Sign Orientation
Sign�orientation�should�take�into�account:�� The� potential� for� glare� from� the�
vehicle� headlights� reflecting� off� the�sign�face.�
� The� reflectivity� level� of� the� sign�provided� during� night� time�conditions.�
� Driver�line�of�sight�relative�to�the�sign,�at� the� point� which� the� sign� is� first�read.�
�Angling�ground�mounted�and�overhead�signs�slightly� away� from� the� approaching� driver�reduces� glare� caused� by� reflection� from�headlights�at�night.��Tilting�a�sign�away�from�the� driver� also� has� the� negative� effect� of�decreasing� sign� legibility� by� increasing� the�angle�of�incidence�of�the�light�emitted�by�the�headlights.��As�a�result,�less�light�is�reflected�by� the�retro�reflective�sign�sheeting�and�the�sign� loses� brightness,� conspicuity� and�legibility.��For�small�side�mounted�signs�mounted�closer�to�the�roadway,�the�benefits�of�reduced�glare�are� seen� to� outweigh� the� disadvantages� of�slightly�decreasing�night�legibility.�Therefore,�the�angling�of�ground�mounted�signs�slightly�away� from� the� driver� is� recommended� for�these� types� of� signs.� For� horizontal� offset�positions�of�four�to�nine�metres,�the�need�to�angle� the� sign� away� from� the� roadway� is�reduced�and�should�be�verified�in�the�field.�At�horizontal�offset�distances�of�greater�than�nine�metres,�the�sign�should�be�angled�toward�the�travel�lanes�to�improve�legibility.��The� orientation� of� ground� mounted� and�overhead� guide� signs� should� be� measured�relative�to�the�direction�of�traffic�at�a�location�from� which� the� sign� is� to� be� first� read.��Specifically,� the� following� should� be�considered:�
� Horizontal�curves��the�orientation�of�the� sign� face� relative� to� the� traffic�direction�should�be�measured�from�the�tangent�of�the�curve�at�a�point�where�the�sign�is�to�be�first�read.�
� Vertical� curves� �the� tilt� of� overhead�signs� towards� the� driver� should� be�measured�from�a�line�placed�at�right�angles� to� the� roadway� surface� and�should�be�greater�on�uphill�grades�and�reduced�on�downhill�grades.�
�Exact�orientation�of�a�ground�mounted�sign�face� should� be� measured� in� the� field.� In�general,� ground� mounted� signs� should� be�angled� approximately� one� to� three� degrees�from� the� perpendicular,� away� from� the�traveled�direction.��The�tilt�of�overhead�signs�should� be� towards� the� ground.� � Sign�orientation�is�illustrated�in�Figure�3.9.��
Figure 3.9 – Sign Orientation
��
A4.3.12 Sign Materials
Good�construction�and�installation�of�signs�is�necessary� to� avoid�dangerous� situations� for�
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road�users,�particularly�from�signs�that�are�too�low,�have�sharp�edges�or�are�not�designed�to�collapse�on�vehicle�impact.��Specifications�for�sign�materials�are�found�within�the�“Alberta�Highway� Construction� Specifications�Manual”,�obtainable� from� Alberta� Infrastructure� and�Transportation’s�Head�Office�or� the�Alberta�Infrastructure�and�Transportation�website.��Sign�materials�fall�into�three�categories:�
� Retro�Reflective�Sheeting�and�Illumination�
� Substrates�� Sign�Supports.�
�A4.3.12.1 Retro-Reflective Sheeting and
Illumination
The� visibility� of� guide� signs� at� night� is�facilitated� by� the� use� of� retro�reflective�materials�to�face�the�signs.��In�some�cases�the�signs�may�also�be�illuminated.��Retro�reflective�sheeting�uses�the�headlights�of�a�vehicle�at�night�to�illuminate�the�sign�for�the�driver�by�reflecting�the�light.��More�light�will� be� reflected� to� the� driver� by� a� higher�sheeting�type�number.����The�Alberta�Infrastructure�and�Transportation�Specification� 5.18� �� Supply� of� Permanent�Highway�Signs�Posts�and�Bases�requires�that�Types� III� and� IV� High� Intensity� Retro�Reflective�Sheeting�be�used.��Types�VIII�and�IX�Retro�Reflective�Sheeting�may�be�used�in�lieu�of�illumination.��The�artwork�on�Logo�Signs�shall�be�either�silk�screened�or�comprise�of�Type�III�or�IV�retro�reflective� sheeting�material�with�or�without�cuttable�film.��Cuttable�film�is�an�acrylic�film�that�is�transparent�and�durable.��The�adhesive�used� is� transparent,� pressure� sensitive� and�protected� by� a� removable� liner.� � For� more�information�on� retro�reflectivity� refer� to� the�
TAC� “Supplemental� Guide� for� Guide� and�Information� Signage� in� Canada”.� The�illumination�of�overhead�guide�signs�is�based�upon�a�number�of�factors,�which�are�covered�in�the�“Highway�Lighting�Guide”�published�by�Alberta�Infrastructure�and�Transportation.��Ground� mounted� signs� on� roadways� in�Alberta�are�not� typically� illuminated,�as� the�retro�reflective� sheeting� provides� enough�brightness�at�night,�when�illuminated�by�the�headlights�of�an�approaching�vehicle.����A4.3.12.2 Backing Materials
The�Alberta�Infrastructure�and�Transportation�Specification� 5.18� �� Supply� of� Permanent�Highway�Signs,�Post�and�Bases,�requires�that�one�of� the� following�materials�be�used�as� a�sign�backing�material:���
� ½”�plywood�� ¾”�plywood�� Extruded�aluminum�� Two� millimetre� flat� sheet� tension�
leveled�sign�grade�aluminum.��Small�signs�including�route�markers�and�mile�post�markers�will� have�½”�plywood� or� flat�aluminum.��Large�ground�mounted�signs�that�are�greater�than�one�square�metre�will�have�¾”� plywood� or� extruded� aluminum.� � If�plywood� is� used� on� the� large� ground�mounted� signs� then� “Gerts”� or� bracing�material� may� be� needed� to� stiffen� the�plywood� surface� and� provide� a� suitable�mounting� support.� � Overhead� guide� signs�primarily� use� extruded� aluminum.�Refer� to�Drawings�TCS�A4�335A�and�TCS�A4�335B��at�the�end�of�this�section.��A4.3.12.3 Sign Supports
A�good�sign�support�system�should:�� Fail� in� a� safe,� predictable�manner� if�
struck.�� Have� low� material,� installation� and�
maintenance�costs.�
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� Be�easy�to�install.�� Be�made�of�readily�available�material.�
�Signs,�bases�and�posts�should�be�installed�in�conformance�with�Alberta�Infrastructure�and�Transportation�typical�signage�Drawings�TCS�A4�310�and�TCS�A4�315�and�Specification�7.7.�Large�signs�will� require�an�angle� iron�wind�frame�as�shown�in�Drawing�TCS�A4�320�on�wooden� posts,� or� Drawing� TCS�A4�325� for�steel�I�beam�posts.��Signs�shall�be�attached�to�wooden� posts� in� accordance�with� Drawing�TCS�A4�330�and�to�steel�breakaway�posts�in�accordance�with�Drawings�TCS�A4�335A��and�TCS�A4�335B.�Extruded�aluminum�signs�shall�be�assembled�as�shown�in�Drawings�TCS�A4�335A� and� TCS�A4�335B.� � All� of� the� typical�signage�drawings�can�be�found�at�the�end�of�this�section.��
A4.3.13 Signage Design Plans All� signs� that� are� placed� in� a� provincial�highway�right�of�way�must�be�approved�by�Alberta�Infrastructure�and�Transportation.��A�signage� design� plan� must� be� submitted� to�Alberta�Infrastructure�and�Transportation�as�part�of�the�design�submission�package.��The�design� involves� selecting� the� appropriate�signs,� determining� the� locations,� and�estimating�quantities�and�costs.��
To� obtain� approval� on� sign� design� from�Alberta�Infrastructure�and�Transportation�the�following� needs� to� be� completed� and�submitted:�
� An� inventory�of� the� current� signs� in�the�highway�right�of�way.�
� A�summary�of�the�signs�and�materials�required�for�the�purposed�sign�design.�
� Sign�layout�drawing(s).��Submissions�of� proposed� sign� details� may� be�completed� with� guide� signing�software.�
� Contract�quantities.�� An� estimate� of� the� contract� and�
material�costs.��For� overhead� signs,� an� overhead� sign�structure�that�is�supporting�an�overhead�sign�that� is� larger� than� four� square� metres� is�treated�as�a�bridge�structure.�The�structural�design� shall� be� approved� by� the� Bridge�Section� of� Alberta� Infrastructure� and�Transportation.���������������������
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